Clinical Data Specialist

About the role

The Clinical Data Specialist plays a crucial role in validating and analyzing machine learning models used by Function Health. This position requires a strong foundation in statistical inference, experimental design, and model validation, along with proficiency in Python and statistical libraries.

Responsibilities

• Design and own statistical analysis plans (SAPs) to validate machine learning models, including definitions of cohorts, endpoints, metrics, and subgroup analyses.
• Develop and execute rigorous statistical evaluations of ML models, including performance assessment, calibration analysis, uncertainty quantification, and sensitivity analyses.
• Lead subgroup, bias, and fairness analyses to understand model behavior across demographics, clinical characteristics, and longitudinal trajectories.
• Partner with ML scientists to define appropriate validation strategies, including cross-validation, temporal validation, external validation, and robustness testing.
• Apply classical and modern statistical methods (e.g., regression, survival analysis, mixed-effects models) to contextualize and validate model outputs.
• Analyze longitudinal health data to assess change over time, progression patterns, and stability of model predictions in the presence of missingness and real-world noise.
• Conduct literature review and methodological research to ensure analyses align with clinical standards and best practices in biostatistics and epidemiology.
• Document analytical assumptions, limitations, and results clearly to support auditability, interpretability, and regulatory readiness.
• Communicate findings and statistical rationale to clinicians, product leaders, and engineers, translating technical results into clear clinical insights.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in biostatistics, applied statistics, epidemiology, or a related quantitative role.
• Strong foundation in statistical inference, experimental design, and model validation.
• Proficiency in Python and statistical libraries (e.g., NumPy, pandas, SciPy, statsmodels); experience working alongside ML workflows.
• Experience designing and executing statistical analysis plans for complex datasets.
• Familiarity with longitudinal and real-world data, including missingness, censoring, and time-dependent effects.
• Strong skills in interpreting results, assessing uncertainty, and communicating limitations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with machine learning, engineering, and clinical teams.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in biostatistics, statistics, epidemiology, public health, or a related field.

Skills

• Care deeply about correctness, rigor, and interpretability, especially when data and models may influence real health decisions.
• Comfortable working alongside engineering teams while maintaining an independent statistical perspective focused on validation and evidence.
• Enjoy working in cross-functional environments and can clearly explain statistical concepts, uncertainty, and limitations to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Benefits

Function Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible working hours, and a dynamic work environment where creativity and innovation are encouraged. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive and equitable workforce.